There are so many great things to see and do in London. I think you’ll be amazed by all of the attractions, landmarks, and tours that are available. HOWEVER, if you’re like me, after two or three days touring a major city, you are anxious to take some day trips OUTSIDE the city. There are some pretty amazing English countryside getaways, day trips from London, and famous landmarks outside London that you’ll want to add to your bucket list of things to do.
As you venture outside of London, discover the charming villages, the rolling hills of the British countryside, and quaint towns with cottages and cobbled streets. These are some of my favorite enchanting day trips from London plus weekend trips to Europe from London made easy by Eurostar.
English Countryside Getaways
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Chris and I LOVE getting away from the hustle and bustle of large tourist cities anywhere in the British countryside and Europe. If we are planning international travel, villages and towns outside major hubs are what we love to explore. If this happens to be your first time driving in the UK on the opposite side of the road, take note of the 13 Tips Americans Should Know When Driving in the United Kingdom. You can thank me later!
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1. Bath
This is one of the day trips from London that will be intriguing for everyone in the family. The Roman Baths are located in Bath, a historic city about 2.5 hours outside of London. Beyond a tour of the Roman Baths, you can also see the Bath Abbey, the Circus, Pulteney Bridge, and the River Avon.
Did you know that a circus in Britain has nothing to do with clowns? “Circus” comes from the Latin root “circ” (meaning circle). It is a round historic circular-shaped street filled with unique townhomes, ie., Piccadilly Circus.
London to Bath: Hop on the train at Paddington Station in London and you can be in Bath in less than an hour and a half.
2. Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge
My husband often travels to the UK for business. As such, he has visited a lot of the top “tourist spots” in London, some more than once. I try to help him find new and unusual locations to visit as convenient day trips from London by train, especially since he loves to visit World War II sites. The Battle of Britain Bunker was one of his recent favorite tours.
Note * You must make a reservation to tour the bunker. Advance reservations are recommended.
The Battle of Britain Bunker is an underground operations room that was used during World War II by No. 11 Group Fighter Command. The bunker was the control center for fighter aircraft operations throughout the war, and specifically during the Battle of Britain and on D-Day. You can tour the bunker as well as the above ground visitor center.
London to Uxbridge: A quick 45-minute train ride from London.
3. Brighton
This seaside resort is a popular destination. Enjoy the lively nightlife, ride bikes along the coast, or walk on the beach. Some of the must-see attractions in the area include:
- Royal Pavilion
- Volk’s Electric Railway
- Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
- Brighton Palace Pier
- The Lanes
- Old Police Cells Museum
London to Brighton: Approximately 1.5 hours by train through the British countryside to the southern coast.
4. Bristol
While in Bristol, my husband and I explored the SS Great Britain. You could spend a few hours here exploring the hull, learning about the workings of the ship, and then exploring the inside of the ship with its first class accommodations, lower class accommodations, the cooking area, bathrooms, etc. The berths were about a foot wide and barely long enough for my 5’2″ height!
Take the Cross Harbor Ferry to transport back and forth across the river.
Other things to do and see in Bristol on day trips from London are the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a River Cruise along the River Avon, and guided walking tours.
London to Bristol by train: Approximately 1 hr and 40 minutes.
5. Cambridge
Cambridge, less than one hour from London, is a lovely college town to visit.
Chris and I explored Cambridge on a rainy day, but still enjoyed meandering along the Backs and the River Cam, touring King’s College Chapel, and standing on the Bridge of Sighs. While the day was a little too wet for a punt tour, we saw plenty of the small boats docked along the river.
London to Cambridge by train: Approximately 1 hour
6. Cotswolds
The Cotswolds cover an expansive area of almost 800 square miles. You could spend days exploring delightful Cotswold villages with their charming markets and golden-hued country homes. I would classify the Cotswolds as one of my most enchanting day trips from London…ever!
A few of the amazing villages to add to your “must-see” bucket list are:
- Bourton-on-the-Water
- Broadway
- Chipping Campden
- Cirencester
- Fairford
- Lower Slaughter
- Snowshill
- Upper Slaughter
During our recent visit to the Cotswolds, Chris and I noted that there were not a lot of transportation opportunities for getting to the Cotswolds and then between the villages. I would recommend that you rent a car. Buses are possible but may not run as frequently as you wish to travel from one amazing village to another. Having a car will allow you to explore some of the most beautiful places in the Cotswolds.
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7. Dartmoor National Park
“Dartmoor really does have something for everyone; history lovers can explore castle ruins and learn about local myths and legends at our museums or on a guided walk, families have plenty of exciting attractions to choose from, while there’s lots of opportunities for rambling over tors, cycling up challenging hills and staying active in the great outdoors.” Visit Dartmoor
I loved seeing the Dartmoor ponies, photographing the sheep, and hiking to Bellever Tor (a tor is a hill or rocky peak that you can hike). While seeing Highland cows was high on my list during our day trip from London, I was disappointed to not see any.
Visiting Dartmoor National Park would make for a very long day trip but would be awesome for a weekend break from the city.
London to Dartmoor National Park: 4 to 5 hours by train and 4 hours by car.
9. Seven Sister Cliffs near Birling Gap
Chris booked a day tour of the Seven Sisters Cliffs tacked onto the end of a business trip to London. Having a day to spare at the end of the week, he was happy to let his tour guide do the driving and the talking.
The Seven Sisters define the English Channel coast and are a series of chalky sea cliffs that are naturally eroding each year. Birling Gap, which is the stop with the most iconic view of the cliffs, offers a visitor center, charming cafes, access to Seven Sisters Country Park, lighthouses, amazing sunrise views, and is the start of many family-friendly walking trails.
You can order takeaway lunches from local cafes; be sure to try the award-winning bread and cheese from Beehive on the Green. If you don’t want to take your packed lunch with you, find a spot overlooking the green and settle in for breathtaking views.
Note * There are many signs warning visitors to stay away from the edge of the cliffs. With the natural erosion, you never know when a chunk of the coast will fall away. Pay attention to the signs.
London to Birling Gap: Approximately 2.5 hours by train, bus, or car.
10. Southampton
Did you know that Southampton is the location where the Titanic set sail? Today, many cruise ships depart from Southampton for European destinations. Our family happened to be in Southampton for a cruise to Norway when our youngest contracted Covid in 2021. We had to make a change of plans quickly but spent a few days in recovery mode in Southampton before driving to the Cotswolds for the next week.
If you are in Southampton preparing for a cruise or just exploring the area, you might appreciate the chance to:
- Shop along High Street along the QE2 Mile
- Visit the SeaCity Museum
- Walk along the fortress walls
- Visit the Tudor House and Garden
- Airplane enthusiasts will enjoy the Spitfires at Solent Sky Museum
- Tackle high adventure at “Go Ape” as you climb trees, zip line, cross suspended platforms, and swing like Tarzan
- Try a dessert or two at Heavenly Desserts
London to Southampton: 2 1/4 hours by car or bus, less than an 1 1/4 by train.
11. Stonehenge
Stonehenge, one of the most famous landmarks outside London and in the world, has baffled historians for years seeking answers to why it was built, who built it, and the purpose of the rocks and their placement. Otherworldly? Indeed. Stonehenge was built over 5,000 years ago in the Neolithic period.
The Stone Circle may be the primary reason you visit Stonehenge—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—but you can also visit five houses built during the Neolithic period that were excavated after 2006.
Getting to Stonehenge may present a bit of a challenge if you do not have a rental car or guided tour planned as there are no direct trains to the site. However, you can take the train from London’s Waterloo Station to Salisbury (about 9 miles away) and then take the Stonehenge tour bus, hire a taxi, or ride a bike.
London to Stonehenge: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes by car.
12. Temple of the Knights Templar
Chris visited the Temple of the Knights Templar while on a business trip to London. The knights had the responsibility of protecting pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem in the 1100’s. While NOT a day trip from London, the unique Temple Church—once a stronghold for the Knights Templar—is located between Fleet Street and the River Thames.
Transport yourself back in time when you visit as you discover the storied history that includes intrigue, initiation rites, and wealth. In the Middle Ages, walking through the church with its round nave and fortress-like walls was the closest one could get to Jerusalem without making the pilgrimage.
Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, mentioned Temple Church in the main scenes of the book and movie. This propelled the The Temple and the Knights Templar into popularity among tourists.
13. Weston-super-Mare
Weston-super-Mare, or Weston for short, is a seaside town in North Somerset, England. It makes the perfect summer getaway when you are looking for day trips from London and ideas for a bucket list. Here you can:
- Walk along the beach
- Visit the helicopter museum
- Explore the Grand Pier
- Visit the Lambretta Museum of Scooters
- Try scones with clotted cream and jam at Mr. Fox’s Tearoom
- Ride the Ferris Wheel
- Surf
London to Weston-super-Mare: 3 hours by car or bus, 2 hours by train.
14. Windsor Castle in Windsor
Located just 21 miles (33 km) outside of London, a visit to Windsor is a perfect day trip from London through the British countryside. Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the royal family. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, discover the chapel, tour Windsor Castle (get tickets in advance), and stroll along the Long Walk, a 2.5 mile path that connects the castle to The Great Park.
London to Windsor: ~1 hour by car, 40 minutes by bus, 45 minutes by train
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15. Amsterdam, Netherland
Amsterdam is one of the most popular and colorful tourist destinations close to London. The canal houses in Amsterdam are typically narrow, tall, colorful, and overlook a canal.
Things to do on a jaunt to Amsterdam?
- Visit the Anne Frank house
- Take a boat tour
- Walk along the canals
- Visit in the spring and enjoy a guided tour of tulip fields
- Wander through the Red Light District
- Eat stroopwafels
- Explore the Rijksmuseum
- Discover the Corrie ten Boom house in Haarlem just 15 minutes outside Amsterdam
London to Amsterdam by train: ~ 4 hours
16. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is often referred to as the Venice of the North. There is a lot to do in Bruges if you are planning weekend trips from London to Europe.
Things to do in Bruges:
- Visit the heart of the city center in Bruges Market Square. You will find the tourism information center here.
- Visit the picturesque Wijngaerde’ Beguinage.
- Take a horse and buggy ride through the cobbled streets.
- Enjoy the market on Wednesday morning.
- Take a canal boat tour.
- Discover the Bruges Photo Point at the corner of Rozenhoedkaai Street and Huidenvettersplein town square.
- Climb the Belfry of Bruges.
- Visit the Historium Museum and climb the Historium Tower.
- Discover Blinde Ezelstraat (blind donkey street).
- Photograph windmills.
- Try beignets.
London to Bruges: less than 3.5 hours by train.
17. Disneyland Paris, France
A weekend break to Disneyland Paris is simply magical whether you are planning a couples getaway or a family adventure. You can explore the Sleeping Beauty Castle, meet your favorite Disney princesses, and ride your favorite ride over and over again.
If you are planning your first trip, discover 40 Disneyland Paris hacks, tips and hints to help you have an amazing trip!
London to Disneyland Paris via Lille: 3 hours by Eurostar and then a transfer from Lille to Disneyland.
18. Ghent, Belgium
My husband and I spent the night at the Ghent Marriott right off Korenlei Street next to the canal in the center of the historic district. Enter a storybook setting with the quaint architecture, the canal, the cobbled streets, the smell, and the beautiful sunshine.
You will quickly discover that Ghent is one of the most enchanting destinations that you can explore! Choose one of the canal tours to get up close and personal with many homes and businesses.
London to Ghent: 3 hours
19. Mont-Saint-Michel, France
Mont Saint Michel is uniquely located on a small rocky island off the coast of Normandy surrounded by the waters of the sea during high tides. As one of the famous landmarks outside London, the island commune paints a dramatic picture at sunset.
There are a lot of stairs within the Abbey, but if you are able to climb, you’ll enjoy seeing:
- The view from the west terrace
- The cloister gallery and its architectural details
- The refectory (dining room)
- The monks’ walkway
We parked our rental car across the bay to visit Mont Saint Michel and found a shuttle bus for the 3 km drive to the Abbey.
Reserve tickets to visit the Abbey
London to Mont-Saint-Michel: There is no direct train to Mont-Saint-Michel. It would take about 7.5 hours if you were to drive. Take the Eurostar from London to Paris and then take alternate transportation from there.
20. Normandy, France
Explore the significant historical sites from World War II, as you visit Normandy and discover quaint beach towns all along the coast of France. As you visit the beaches of Normandy and gaze out from the cliffs or stand among the rows upons rows of crosses in the American cemetery, it is impossible not to be impacted by the tremendous acts of bravery as real life moments are shared on Normandy tours.
London to Normandy: There is no direct train to Normandy. It would take about 6.5 hours if you were to drive. You can take the Eurostar from London to Paris and then take alternate transportation from there.
21. Paris, France
Want to enjoy weekend trips from London to Paris by train? It is possible on the Eurostar. It takes less than 2.5 hours by train and offers you a wonderful weekend getaway to the “City of Love”. Do you love to visit museums? How about cathedrals? Famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower? Or monuments? Need to try crepes or macarons? Paris has got you covered!
London to Paris: 2 hours and 20 minutes.
You Are Gonna Want Your Camera
Each of these locations are Instagram worthy, so you’re gonna want to make to take some great shots with your phone or camera. What’s in my camera bag? Check out my favorite photography equipment.
Here are some basics:
Travel Gear for Your English Countryside Getaways
- Visor
- Sunscreen
- The North Face Recon Backpack Women
- The North Face Recon Backpack Men
- Walking Shoes
- Travelon Crossbody Bag – Discover why this is My Favorite Crossbody Bag for Travel!
- Water Bottle
- Sunglasses
Related Post: 43 Great Travel Gifts to Make Holiday Giving a Breeze
Click Below to “Discover More of my Amazon Favorites”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest city to visit from London?
With the help of the Eurostar, Paris is just 2.5 hours by train from London.
Is Stonehenge a tourist trap?
Over the years, Stonehenge has become the quintessential definition of a tourist trap. The transformation of the area now includes a gift shop and loads of tour buses arriving each day. All visitors are required to purchase tickets to visit the site.
Is it possible to visit Stonehenge without purchasing a ticket?
Good news! Yes, you can visit Stonehenge without purchasing an entry ticket. However, you will not be able to walk up to the stone circle. There are public footpaths and viewpoints at a distance that would still allow you to experience the magic of Stonehenge.
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Final Thoughts on English Countryside Getaways and Day Trips from London
Is there an English countryside getaway that sparks your interest? I would happily return to the Cotswolds to explore for another week, but there are also plenty of places in Ireland, Scotland and Wales that I have yet to visit as well. Good thing this world is big and wide with new adventures possible everywhere you go!
If the Cotswolds is one of the charming destinations you plan to visit, download my free Cotswolds Packing Guide.
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You’ve included some of our favorites, such as the Seven Sisters Cliffs. We also often recommend Oxford as a day trip (or weekend getaway), and highly recommend weekend getaways to the Lake District, Edinburgh, and Cornwall.
So many of these need to be added to my list! I have heard that Stonehenge is kind of a let-down, which is sad.
I would love to visit London, but I could only handle it for a day. I much prefer smaller towns which makes me attracted to all of these spots you’ve mentioned. But I specifically would love to visit the Cotswolds one day.
A good roundup of options for a day trip from London. It’s so often people only stay in London and don’t realise that they can jump on a train and be at the coast or countryside in a short amount of time.
This is such a good selection of spots… I was definitely today years old when I found out Southampton was where the Titanic set sail from 😆
Lots of great weekend escapes from London – my two favourite Bath and Paris.
Hello! What a great list of spots! I would probably choose visiting Cotswolds or Dover, but other destinations also sound cool.